Kolli Hills or Kolli Malai is a small mountain range located in central Tamil Nadu and spreaded over the Namakkal district of India. The mountains rise to 1300m in height and cover an area of approximately 280 km². They are part of the Eastern Ghats, which is a mountain range that runs mostly parallel to the east coast of South India. The mountain is a site of pilgrimage, because of the Arapaleeswarar temple, but the area is also popular with Motor cycle enthusiasts because of the high altitude motor-able terrain with 70 hairpin bends .
Summers are generally cool and temperate with the temperatures rarely goes beyond 30°C. Winter (December-February) sees temperatures ranging from 13°C to 18°C, thereby ensuring a rather chilly climate compared to other areas in Tamil Nadu.
Kolli Hills in Tamil Nadu can be visited all round the year except for the month of January as the temperatures drop down considering the altitude of this picturesque destination. In all the other months Kolli Hill weather is quite pleasant. Hence, the best time to visit Kolli Hills is from February to December. Also, since there are limited number of attractions, an ideal duration of 2 to 3 days would be enough to explore the best of Kolli Hills.
Though this beautiful hill station is not directly accessible by air or by train, it makes for an apt destination for a perfect bike trip or a long drive. However, Kolli Hills can be reached easily from the nearby cities of Chennai, and Salem.
By Air: Trichy domestic airport is the closest airstrip from the hill station of Kolli Hills. Located at a distance of about 90 kilometers, one can reach Kolli Hills from the nearby cities like that of Chennai, Bangalore, Madurai, and so on, by reaching Trichy airport via regular flights.
By Train: The railway station of Salem is the nearest railhead to Kolli Hills which is located at a distance of just 90 kilometers.
By Road: One can travel via state-run buses from Salem which is well connected with the nearby cities of Chennai, Madurai, and so on. Other than that, one can also choose to hire a taxi from the nearest airport or the nearest railway station which would cost the travelers approximately INR 1000 to INR 1200 on an average.
The Silverline Retreat Hotel is one of the best accommodation options one can get at this beautiful hill station. Offering affordable rooms in Kolli Hills combined with ultimate comfort and perfect environs, one must stay at Silverline Retreat Hotel to make the most out of the escapade in Kolli Hills.
For those who’re looking for comfortable and cozy Kolli Hills cottages, look no further than Nallathambi Resort. Considered to be one of the best Kolli hills hotels and resorts, Nallathambi Resort is a perfect resort for family, couples, and groups as well.
Gliding elegantly at a height of 300 feet Agaya Gangai Waterfalls is one of the famous attraction spots in Kolli Hills. It is originated from Panchanathi, a forest stream. It is nestled in a canyon that is enclosed by mountains on all directions. You need to descend 1000 steps to enjoy the complete view of the falls. It is a popular trekking spot in Kollimalai. Timings: 06:00 AM-12:00 PM and 04:00 PM-07:00 PM
Built by Valvil Ori in the first century CE, the Arapaleeshwara temple is one of the well-known temples in Kolli Hills. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and he gives darshan with his entire family. The temple walls are decorated with many Tamil inscriptions from the Chola period. There is a belief among devotees that it has a secret path that ends at Rasipuram Shiva Temple. Timings: 06:00 AM-12:00 PM and 04:00 PM-07:00 PM
The Kollimalai Boat House is set on an artificial lake in Vasalurpatty and enclosed by flourishing greenery. There is a small natural island at the center of the lake with huge boulders. The lake is full of water all around the year. Try boating to explore the beauty of this lake to the fullest. Timings: 06:00 AM-06:00 PM
The Botanical Garden is one of the best places to visit in Kolli Hills. It is a famous picnic spot in Kollimalai. It houses a rose garden, a view point, Herbal Park, eco-friendly cottages and a children ' s park. If you are a nature lover, don ' t miss the annual Flower Show. Timings: 08:00 AM-08:00 PM
Seekuparai is a famous viewpoint in Kolli Hills. It was developed by the State Government to promote tourism in Kollimalai. There is a park on the road leading to the viewpoint. If you want to unwind yourself, this pristine viewpoint is the ideal place to do that. It is also called as Suicide Point by the locals. Meditation and Trekking are famous activities carried out by the vacationers in Seekuparai. Timings: 06:00 AM-05:00 PM
The Siddhar Caves in Kolli Hills is centuries old and was regarded as the home to the sadhus who practiced traditional medicines. At a time only one or two people can enter and explore the cave. Do explore other nearby caves like Bogar, Agastya, and Korakka Siddha caves. If you are an adventurous person, you will definitely enjoy the trek to Siddhar Caves. Timings: 09:00 AM-05:00 PM
Selur Nadu is one of the highest viewpoints in Kollimalai. It is a place of historical importance. This is the place where King Pari gave his royal chariot to aid a jasmine creeper to grow. The path leading to this viewpoint is strewn with the flourishing scenery. The glossy silver oak trees and blooming tropical plants are a visual treat for sore eyes. Timings: 09:00 AM-05:00 PM
Being famous for its abundant wealth of medicinal plants, Tampcol Medicinal Farm is a must visit spot in Kolli Hills. It is set in a total area of 105 acres and is governed by the State Government of Tamil Nadu. It houses differ varieties of medicinal shrubs, plants and herbs which are utilized in the production of Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha products all over the country. You can also buy remedies for common diseases like cold and fever. Timings: 08:00 AM-07:00 PM
Masila Falls is a medium-sized waterfall that is a perched amid the lush jungles of Kollimalai. It gushes from a height of 200 ft through thick bushes of medicinal plants. It is the best place for holidaying with your family and friends. Do visit the Periyasamy Temple located at the top of Masila Falls. Even though it is smaller than the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, it is the best spot for photography and bathing. Timings: 07:00 AM-05:00 PM
Kolli Hills got its name from the Goddess Kolli Paavai (Ettukkai Amman) who is considered as the savior by the locals. The Ettukkai Amman Temple is one of the famous pilgrimage sites in Kolli Hills. It is a small temple but charms multitude of devotees each year on Amavasai (no moon days). Timings: 09:00 AM-05:00 PM
Coffee, pepper, rice, and honey, are some of the popular things to buy for those who feel like shopping in Solakkadu, Kolli Hills. Traditional varieties of fruits are also famous in the local shopping markets called the shandy which are held twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
